How to Respond to a Mass Casualty Attack Situation

Finding yourself in a mass casualty attack situation can cause extreme panic and disorientation. But if you know what to do ahead of time, your chances of surviving this type of emergency situation are greatly increased.

The phrase Run Hide Fight® is a registered trademark of the City of Houston.

Have an escape route and plan in mind

Leave your belongings behind

Keep your hands visible

Your second option should be to hide

Do not huddle together as it makes one easy target

Lock and barricade doors and shut off lights

Fighting is a last resort to be used only when your life is in imminent danger

Attempt to incapacitate the attacker

Find an object to use as a weapon such as a fire extinguisher or chair

Information You Should Provide to Emergency Services

Clarify if you are on Stark State College’s campus

Location of the attacker(s)

Number of attackers, if more than one

Physical description of attacker(s)

Number and type of weapons held by the attacker(s)

Number of potential victims at the location

How to React When Law Enforcement Arrives

Remain calm, and follow officers’ instructions

Immediately raise hands and spread fingers

Keep hands visible at all times

Avoid making quick movements toward officers such as attempting to hold on to them for safety

Avoid pointing, screaming and/or yelling

Do not stop to ask officers for help or direction when evacuating, just proceed in the direction from which officers are entering the premises